RV camping near Pacifica, California offers ocean and redwood views within easy reach of San Francisco. Campers navigate sites that can be tight on space but provide essential hookups for extended stays. The coastal climate brings fog in summer mornings while fall typically delivers clearer conditions and milder temperatures for outdoor activities.
What to Do
Hiking coastal trails: Walk from Pillar Point RV Park to access nearby paths with ocean views. "Walking distance to shops and restaurants, walking and bike trails, beach access, and friendly staff!" notes Raven P. about the trails accessible directly from the campground.
Beach exploration: Half Moon Bay RV Park places visitors near multiple coastal access points. "The RV Park is clean and secure. There are many full time residents that take pride in their community and it shows," explains Gary R., who appreciated the "excellent trail that goes on forever within walking distance."
Urban sightseeing: Access San Francisco via public transit from Marin RV Park. "30 mins away from the City. A bit pricy but that is to be expected in SF," reports Raf A. The location provides a convenient base: "Drive in, park and then walk to all the sights you want to see in San Francisco. A short 10 minute walk from the RV park is the ferry that will drop you off downtown."
Redwood forest visits: Spend time among towering trees at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort. "The camp host went above and beyond! Happily told us things to do with our kids and how close places were. Santa Cruz is only 10 miles away," shares Brittany F., who enjoyed the natural setting with "trees and nature all around."
What Campers Like
Ocean views: San Francisco RV Resort offers clifftop Pacific views. "This is an interesting rv park on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It has a ca beach town feel, but is just 20 minutes from San Francisco," writes Tom H., who spotted "a couple whales too. When it's clear you can see the farralon islands 30 miles offshore."
Urban proximity: Appreciate quick access to city attractions from strategically located RV parks. "Not a far drive to the city either. Price is higher than other places but this close to the city with all of the amenities a pretty good deal," notes Luke D. about San Francisco RV Resort.
Redwood camping: Experience forest camping at Cotillion Gardens RV Park. "Clean, quiet campground nestled in the big trees. Friendly staff and a quick drive into the Santa Cruz beach communities," Kevin writes. The natural setting impressed Jacob B.: "Sites are a little tight but worth being nestled in the redwoods. Lots of hiking and exploring right from the campsite."
Convenient amenities: Full hookups and on-site facilities make stays more comfortable. "Laundry hot tub pool are always clean. Right on the ocean (on a cliff)!" comments Corrie G. about the facilities at San Francisco RV Resort despite the tight spaces.
What You Should Know
Tight parking situations: Most RV parks feature close quarters between sites. "Sites are a little tight but worth being nestled in the redwoods," notes Jacob B. about Cotillion Gardens RV Park, while another camper described San Francisco RV Resort as "more like a parking lot than a campground, but everyone is friendly and the overall vibe is good."
Premium pricing: Expect higher rates throughout the region. "The price we paid was quite expensive for the overall experience," comments Luc M. about Marin RV Park, which is typical for the area. Prices typically range from $80-130 per night.
Reservation requirements: Book well ahead, especially during peak seasons. "Trailer Villa RV Park is great! We did a same day drop-in reservation for an overnight stay over the phone," reports Tony C., but this experience is uncommon during busy periods.
Urban camping reality: Parks near San Francisco tend to be more utilitarian than scenic. "It's a parking lot with full hookups strategically located to public transit direct to San Francisco," explains David M. about the practical nature of Marin RV Park, which prioritizes location over natural settings.
Tips for Camping with Families
Pool and recreation options: Choose parks with family amenities. "Kids liked the pool and clubhouse. Look forward to our next visit," shares Jacob B. about Cotillion Gardens RV Park, which offers activities beyond the campsite.
Redwood explorations: Santa Cruz Ranch Campground provides access to redwood hiking. Though one camper notes it's "not secluded at all from the hustle and bustle," another mentions that "Scotts Valley is lovely in summer, no high heat like the valley."
Playground access: Parks with play areas keep children entertained. "There were lots of kids around using the playground, bicycling, playing basketball, and swimming in the pool," reports Jessica R. about the family-friendly atmosphere at one campground.
Beach day trips: Base your family at coastal campgrounds for easy beach access. "We liked sleeping to the sounds of crashing waves and was able to use full hookups," notes Sary W., highlighting the appeal of oceanside camping despite some facility limitations.
Tips from RVers
Hookup extensions: Bring additional hoses and cables for some sites. "I had to use a 6 foot extension on the sewer hose," advises Patrick J. about Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, while shore power connections were more accessible.
Level pads: Most sites offer concrete or gravel surfaces for easier setup. "Parking pads are concrete and flat; and drive lanes AND parking spots are wide and spacious for maneuvering large RVs," reports Tony C. about Trailer Villa RV Park.
Limited slide space: Be prepared for tight quarters when using slides. "Couldn't put our awning out. The neighbours slide was a foot from our door," reports one camper about tight spacing in some parks.
Internet connectivity: Expect variable Wi-Fi quality. "Great WiFi. It's a parking lot with close neighbors," notes Kirsten about Candlestick RV Park, while other locations may have limited service: "My Starlink was heavily obstructed by trees so worked at 40% speed."
